Depression and Mental Health Screening Month
Depression and Mental Health Screening Month
October is a good time to talk about depression and mental health. As the days get shorter and our routines change, some people may notice changes in their mood, energy, sleep or interest in things they enjoy. These changes are important, especially when they start to affect daily life.
Depression is more than feeling sad after a hard week. It is a health condition that can affect how a person thinks, feels and acts. Signs of depression may include feeling sad for a long time, losing interest in things you enjoy, sleeping too much or too little, changes in appetite, feeling tired, having trouble focusing, feeling worthless or hopeless, or having thoughts about death or suicide.
Mental health screening can help find signs of depression early. A screening is usually a short set of questions about how you have been feeling. Doctors, nurses and mental health providers often use these questions to check for depression, anxiety and other concerns. It can help you notice changes in your mental health and give you a reason to talk with a doctor or mental health professional. Finding signs of depression early is important. Getting help early can keep symptoms from getting worse, help people stay healthy and improve their quality of life.
Some people may feel embarrassed or ashamed about asking for help with their mental health. This can be because of stigma. Stigma is when people have negative ideas or beliefs about mental health problems. It can sound like telling someone to “toughen up” or saying they should be able to handle their problems on their own. It can also include making jokes about mental illness or thinking that only people with serious problems need counseling. Sometimes, even comments meant to help can add to stigma. Saying “everyone has problems” may make someone feel like their concerns do not matter. Instead, listening and taking someone seriously shows that mental health is just as important as physical health and that their concerns do matter.
Depression can affect anyone, including farmers, business owners, students, parents, retirees and health care workers. Asking for help is a way to take care of your health. It is not a sign of weakness.
If you are worried or have questions about your mental health, talk with your doctor or another health care provider. You can ask about a mental health screening. You can also talk with a mental health professional. Telehealth may be an option for people who live far from services or want more privacy.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or is in a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Submitted by: North Country Community Health Services and Beltrami County Community Health Services- www.ncchb.org or www.co.beltrami.mn.us/services/public-health/ or find us on Facebook-North Country Community Health Services
(Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard and Lake of the Woods Public Health)